A security guard’s bravery during a deadly shooting at a San Diego mosque on Monday is being hailed as heroic, with police saying his actions prevented the attack from being much worse. Amin Abdullah, a father of eight, was killed along with two other worshippers, Mansour Kaziha and Nader Awad, by two teenage attackers who then took their own lives.
The shooting occurred at the Islamic Center of San Diego, where Abdullah worked as a security guard. San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl praised Abdullah’s actions, saying “it’s fair to say his actions were heroic” and “undoubtedly, he saved lives today”.
Mosque Shooting Aftermath
Abdullah was well-known and respected in the community, with many describing him as a kind and welcoming person. The mosque called him “a courageous man who put himself on the line of the safety of others, who even in his last moments did not stop protecting our community”. An online fundraiser for Abdullah’s family has raised over $1.6 million.
The two teenage attackers, aged 17 and 18, were found dead of self-inflicted wounds in a vehicle blocks away from the mosque. The shooting is being investigated as a hate crime, with police noting that “hate rhetoric” was involved.
Investigation and Reactions
The incident has sparked an outpouring of support for the victims’ families and the community. The Council on American-Islamic Relations-San Diego has condemned the attack, saying it was a “senseless act of violence” that targeted innocent people. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with police working to determine the motives behind the attack.
The shooting has raised concerns about the rise of hate crimes and the importance of community safety. As the investigation continues, the community is coming together to support the victims’ families and to promote unity and understanding.
